The LA Lakers are reportedly exploring a trade for Washington Wizards center Jonas Valanciunas, aiming to address their need for a robust big man to complement Anthony Davis. This follows consistent links between the Lakers and Valanciunas since the summer, with the rumors resurfacing after LA’s struggles with frontcourt depth. Valanciunas signed a three-year, $30 million contract with the Wizards in the offseason, but his name is back in the trade spotlight.
Potential Trade Details
According to HoopsHype, the Lakers could offer Gabe Vincent along with second-round draft picks to acquire Valanciunas. Vincent, who signed a three-year, $33 million deal with LA in the offseason, has struggled with injuries and inconsistent shooting. While he has contributed solid defense in spurts, his overall impact has been underwhelming.
Valanciunas, on the other hand, is averaging 12.0 points, 7.6 rebounds, and 2.2 assists this season on 58% shooting. His ability to anchor the paint, protect the rim, and provide a physical presence aligns with the Lakers’ need to keep Davis at the power forward position. Additionally, his durability and old-school center style make him a valuable potential acquisition for LA’s rotation.
Why Valanciunas Fits the Lakers’ Needs
- Physicality and Size: At 6’11”, Valanciunas brings a bruising style of play, which is critical in matchups against teams with strong interior presences.
- Defensive Stability: His post defense would relieve pressure on Davis, allowing AD to play more freely as a roving shot-blocker.
- Rebounding: Valanciunas’ ability to dominate the boards could help address one of LA’s weaknesses this season.
- Offensive Versatility: While not a prolific three-point shooter, Valanciunas has a reliable mid-range game and is effective in pick-and-roll situations.
Wizards’ Perspective
With the Wizards mired in a 14-game losing streak and seemingly heading toward a rebuild, they may be inclined to move veterans like Valanciunas and potentially Kyle Kuzma, another player linked to the Lakers. Trading Valanciunas for Vincent and draft capital would provide Washington with flexibility and future assets for their rebuilding efforts.
Valanciunas’ Reaction to Trade Buzz
Valanciunas has remained diplomatic about the trade rumors. Speaking with LRT’s Augustinas Semelis, he downplayed the speculation:
“There are a lot of rumors, and people get paid to spread them. I don’t know anything myself. We’ll see.”
Lakers’ Urgency
Currently holding a 12-9 record and the eighth seed in the Western Conference, the Lakers have been inconsistent on both ends of the floor. Adding a reliable center like Valanciunas could stabilize their defense and enhance their lineup balance as they aim to make a deeper playoff push.
If the deal goes through, it might not be the blockbuster move fans hope for, but it could address critical gaps in LA’s roster and position the team for more consistency.
